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Beyond its beautiful beach and cool café scene, Collaroy is home to one of Australia’s most remarkable health facilities. Sargood on Collaroy is a groundbreaking centre for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). This season, Beaches COVERED. caught up with the Executive Officer of the Sargood Foundation, Andrew Edmondson, to talk about the Foundation’s lasting impact and the incredible sense of community that’s truly transforming lives.
Stepping into Sargood on Collaroy, you’re instantly greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean, lots of natural light, and plenty of friendly faces. A world-first facility, this special place is a home away from home for those with spinal cord injuries, offering world-class support and rehabilitation.
In December 2017, former NSW Premier Mike Baird officially opened the doors to Sargood. Operated by Royal Rehab, with the Sargood Foundation holding one-third ownership, this one-of-a-kind retreat has 17 fully accessible self-contained apartments designed to provide every guest with the freedom to move with ease, regardless of their level of mobility.
“Every room is equipped with adjustable kitchens, bathrooms, beds and living spaces to make day-to-day living easy for those with SCI,” explains Andrew Edmondson, Executive Officer of the Sargood Foundation.
Since opening, Sargood has welcomed over 800 guests from around the world and provides an empowering environment where they can regain independence and embrace new experiences. “Unlike traditional rehabilitation centers, Sargood allows guests to bring their families too, fostering connection and support in a space that’s both therapeutic and recreational,” adds Andrew.
Sargood isn’t just about comfort, because at the heart of it all is inclusivity and empowerment. The facility offers a gym, with specialist physios on site, and a huge range of recreational programs including adaptive surfing and mountain biking, 3D printing, lawn bowls and more. The ‘toy room,’ as Andrew calls it, is full of everything you need to enjoy life outdoors — from bikes, kayaks, surfboards and more.
“All these activities give guests a sense of independence and adventure that can often feel out of reach after a spinal cord injury. One of our guests, who had been injured for more than 30 years, recently went into the ocean for the first time since his accident. Another was able to ride an adaptive bike alongside his young son. These moments are absolutely life-changing.”
Sargood has also partnered with URBNSURF at Sydney Olympic Park where guests can enjoy surfing in a controlled environment. “There’s no sand to contend with, the water’s a good temperature, and they’re guaranteed 10 great waves,” smiles Andrew.
It’s through these innovative programs that Sargood is able to support physical rehabilitation while also fostering emotional wellbeing.
The Sargood Foundation
Andrew’s personal journey gives him a unique perspective on his work at the Sargood Foundation. A former able-bodied rugby player, his life changed forever when a bodysurfing accident at Coogee Beach left him with a spinal cord injury. Andrew’s determination and passion for sports led him to wheelchair rugby, where he went on to represent Australia at the Paralympics, winning a gold medal.
“Sport has always been a huge part of my life, and I know how important it is to have opportunities to stay active and engaged,” he says. “That’s what we offer – a chance for people with SCI to rediscover their passions and push their boundaries.”
The Sargood Foundation plays a vital role in ensuring guests can access opportunities regardless of their financial circumstances. Through extensive fundraising, they run amazing programs like the Kids Camp for children under 13, and the Golden Oldies Camp for guests over 65.
“We work hard to make sure cost is never a barrier,” explains Andrew. “Whether it’s funding specialised equipment, running emergency grant programs for those transitioning from hospital to home, or providing recreational experiences, our goal is to make these experiences accessible to as many people as possible.”
The Beaches community has been a huge support for Sargood, with local businesses, volunteers and donors all contributing. “And one thing you’ll notice when you visit Sargood is there are no gates,” says Andrew. “We designed it that way so our guests feel like part of the community. Whether they’re grabbing a coffee in Collaroy or enjoying a day at the beach, we want them to feel included and supported, and we invite the community to come on in.”
Sargood on Collaroy is setting a new standard for spinal cord injury rehabilitation, and the Foundation is always looking for new ways to enhance experiences and provide life-changing opportunities.
“The work we do here isn’t just about recovery. It’s about redefining what’s possible. Sargood is a place where people can regain confidence, independence and a sense of adventure. It’s more than a facility.”
Come by and say hi!
Next time you’re in Collaroy, pop into Sargood. Have a look around, grab a coffee and say hi to staff and guests. They’d love to see you! And if you’d like to support the Foundation, give Andrew a call.
